About this role
ICON is a global healthcare intelligence and clinical research organisation united by a mission to bring new medicines and treatments to patients faster.
As a values-driven organisation, integrity, collaboration, agility, and inclusion are at the heart of how we work and interact with each other, customers, patients and suppliers.
ICON Specialty Labs partners with biopharma clients to design, verify and validate clinical trial assays (CTA) for patient selection, therapeutic efficacy, and monitoring. We are at the forefront of precision medicine diagnostic technology and ensure reliable and accurate results for pivotal clinical end points.
ICON Specialty Lab's distinction is premised on the fact that diagnostic strategies and challenges for each therapeutic program are unique and often change course with limited notice. The ideal diagnostic partner needs to excel in technical, clinical, quality, regulatory and commercial competencies while collaboratively planning and navigating the translational, clinical, and commercial phases of the therapeutic program.
The Managing Director, Laboratory Operations role will be responsible for the overall success, quality and profitability of the ICON Lab in Portland, Oregon. They will oversee and manage all aspects across high‑complexity testing in our Specialty Laboratory Operations (in collaboration with the Medical Director) including but not limited to: Sample Receipt & Processing, Clinical Trial Testing & Reporting, Custom Method Development, Reagent Production, Project Management, Record Retention, Regulatory Compliance (CLIA, CAP, NY & other states, FDA, EMA, etc.), Inventory Management and Employee Safety. They will have direct P&L responsibilities while managing a team of Directors and Managers. This role drives strategic growth, operational excellence, and innovation while ensuring compliant, high‑quality delivery of specialty laboratory services supporting global clinical trials.
Primary Responsibilities:
Provide strategic and operational leadership for global Specialty Laboratory Operations.
Ensure compliance with CAP, CLIA, NYS, and applicable global regulatory requirements.
Own operational performance metrics, including quality, turnaround time, productivity, and cost efficiency.
Maintain financial accountability, including budgeting, forecasting, and investment planning.
Lead and develop senior laboratory leadership teams; drive talent development and succession planning.
Partner cross‑functionally with Medical, Quality, Commercial, IT/LIMS, and Global Lab Operations.
Sponsor automation, digital, and process improvement initiatives to support scalability and innovation.
Position Requirements:
10 years progressive experience including both CAP/ CLIA accredited and GLP Lab environments, including at least 5 years experience in these environments managing P&L
Proven ability to effectively communicate with external clients, especially in support of increasing revenue attainment
BS or higher Degree in Medical or Life Sciences (clinical, biological, chemical, or laboratory science discipline) required; MBA preferred
Proven ability to successfully lead, motivate and influence employees positioned at all organizational levels including change leadership
Strong interpersonal, analytical and communication skills
Able to be in the Portland, Oregon office 5 days a week
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Employment with ICON is contingent upon having the legal right to work in the country where the role is based.
Rewards & Benefits
ICON offers a competitive and comprehensive total rewards package designed to support your health, wellbeing, and career development.
Benefits may include:
- Competitive base salary and performance related incentives
- Health and wellbeing programmes including medical, dental, and vision coverage where applicable
- Retirement and pension plans
- Life assurance and disability coverage
- Employee assistance programmes and wellbeing resources
- Learning and development opportunities through structured training and career pathways
Benefits may vary depending on role and location.
Visit our careers site to read more about the benefits ICON offers.
Inclusion and Accessibility
ICON is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building an inclusive and accessible workplace where everyone feels valued and supported.
If you require reasonable accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know or submit a request here.
Are you a current ICON Employee? Please click here to apply
About ICON plc
Global contract research organization providing outsourced clinical development services. Headquartered in Dublin, Ireland.
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